Seriously?

This weeks edition of Seriously? A look back, with a sarcastic lens, at the week in sports:

Matt Leinart is whining about being benched for the Cardinals preseason game against the Bears. He said publically that he is confused and does not know why he’s been demoted. Seriously? Matt, huddle up for chat. Yes, you have been accurate (19-23) and you haven’t turned the ball over, but seriously, you done nothing but throw the check down, you’ve taken four sacks, and your team has not been moving the ball offensively. Matt, maybe show the same fire on the field that you did in front of the media about your demotion. You may have a solid passer rating (and by the way, who cares?) but you have looked confused and passive. Yes, you threw a TD against the Bears and yes, it was another check down.

This past Wednesday, Jim Furyk missed his tee time for the Barclay’s pro-am. He was summarily disqualified from the actual tournament (starting on Thursday) due to a PGA rule to make corporate sponsors and other rich white guys happy. Seriously? It’s a pro-am. It’s a meet and greet with clubs. Okay, fine, it’s the rule. Note to Mike Cowan (Jim Furyk’s caddie) call your golfer if you think he might be late. And Jim, double down on the cell phone alarm with a wakeup call from the hotel. This is not a tourney that comes with good karma for Furyk, last year he was penalized four strokes for carrying an extra club in his bag over the first two holes - a duplicate 60-degree wedge that he and his veteran caddie didn't realize was in the bag. Seriously?

Chad Ochocinco was fined $25,000 for tweeting during preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Seriously, we’re talking about the preseason, man (think Allen Iverson and practice). One of the offending tweets was, "Man Im sick of getting hit like that, its the damn preseason [expletive]! 1day I'm gone jump up and start throwing hay makers, #Tylenolplease," Couldn’t he claim that he was not in his right mind? He took a hell of a shot. Still, let the man tweet, it’s the preseason. Regular season, I’m with you NFL, but it’s the preseason, no one is really watching and he might help ratings.

Sammy Sosa thinks that the Cubs should retire his jersey. Seriously? Who asks to have their number retired? Has he planned the ceremony? Sammy, we are glad you have your color back but in case you haven’t noticed there is still a cloud of suspension following you like the stench on Pig Pen.

Michael Jordan and Kwame Brown (Jordan’s 2001 first round selection for Wizards and a prodigious bust) are reunited (yes, and it feels so good) in Charlotte. Why? Seriously, MJ? What in the last 9 years has made MJ think that Kwame can contribute? Seriously? Stubbornness as a player leads to greatness, stubbornness as a GM/President leads to failure.

Roger Clemens indicted on perjury and obstruction of Congress says that he looks forward to his day in court. Is also looking forward to his days in jail? Seriously, enough already with the arrogance, Roger.

Albert Haynesworth was in the news again this week with “headaches” or a “muscular disorder.” Seriously? Do we need to hold a telethon for Albert? He’s obese, has “headaches”, a knee issue, a “muscular disorder”, and a $100 million dollar contract. Sounds like he is the poster child for the lazy, rich, fat athlete syndrome also know as Derrick Coleman Syndrome (there will be a post on this syndrome).

Tyler Thomas, an Oregon State University offensive lineman, has been dismissed from the team after police say they found him naked and drunk in a stranger's home and they had to use stun guns to take him into custody. Seriously, erase that mental image from my brain and what the hell are they putting in the water in Corvallis, OR?

Through My Head: Random Musings

The question coming out of USA Basketball is whether Rajon Rondo jumped before he was pushed off of the team. Last week, USA basketball coach, Mike Krzyzewski sat Rondo for an exhibition game against Spain, one night after starting him in an exhibition against Lithuania. By then, Rondo could read the writing on the wall. He told ESPN's Chris Sheridan that he felt he could be the final roster cut. Yes, the international game is different but Rondo’s two greatest weaknesses were exposed in a real and glaring way. He has no reliable outside shot and he can't make free throws. Until he corrects those two issues (along with an attitude adjustment as well) he will always be a second tier point guard in the NBA.

18 Game Schedule: Too Much of a Good Thing?

The NFL Owners are meeting today in Atlanta. One of the agenda items is the proposed 18 game NFL schedule. This proposal would move two preseason games (currently four) to the regular season (from 16 games to 18 games). This is an inevitable move. I’m not a fan of the move for multiple reasons. The primary reason is that it is motivated by greed. Yes, Gordan Gekko states that, “Greed is good” but not in this case. It is a kin, in my mind, to the realignment that we see in major college football this past spring. It is about the almighty dollar. Yes, I get that the NFL is a business, I’m not naive but it is more complicated than the financial bottom line. There are people involved—both players and fans.

The 18 game schedule will create more wear and tear on the players’ bodies. This could mean more money during a season but less money over their careers because careers will be shorter. Running backs, already the disposable heroes of the league, will suffer even more of a beating over 18 games (plus the play offs which could push the total to 21 games). NFL is being hypocritical on this issue. On one end it discusses (and mandates) the need to vigilance and increased safety (technology, screenings, and equipment) regarding head injuries (which I support fully) about player safety. Then on the other end they extend the regular season, when veterans and starters will bear the brunt of the load, and ignore the wear and tear.

One of the arguments for an 18 game regular season is that the quality of play in the preseason is below the regular season. Roger Goddell discusses this all the time. The fans are demanding a better product in the preseason. Yes, some season ticket holders have to pay for preseason games and yes the preseason doesn’t count, but it is essential. More on that issue below. The fact is that no one complains about the quality of spring training in baseball. That is because we understand that it is practice, that players are working into game shape and speed, and that teams need to assess the talent on the roster. Why don’t we afford that same understanding to the NFL? Preseason games are not supposed to be the same quality as regular season games. Coaches are assessing a roster of 80 players and working out kinks in their offenses and defenses. No one brings up the fact that there are meaningless games in the regular season (see Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals after clinching divisions last year). There is poor and inconsistent play in the NFL during the regular season (see Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Bucs). Also note that the more games on the schedule the more opportunity for teams to clinch early, rest starters, and for there to be even more meaningless games on the back end (instead of meaningless preseason games on the front end).

The lack of a four game preseason will make it harder for coaches to assess talent the talent on their rosters. It will be particularly harder for lower draft picks and undrafted free agents to prove themselves in game situations. Practice and OTAs are one thing but a roster is made in game situations. Mark Schlereth (former NFL lineman and ESPN analyst), Jeff Saturday (Colts starting center), and Terrell Davis (former Denver Bronco running back) have all said publicly that they would not have made the NFL if it weren’t for the full complement of preseason games. As mentioned before, fans gripe about the quality of play in the preseason and the fact that the stars don’t play that much. THE PRESEASON IS NOT FOR FANS. It is for coaches and players to get ready for the year. We, as fans, are merely observers in that process, a process that is essential to developing future NFL stars and to insuring a high quality product during the regular season. Preseason games may not count but they are important.

Yes, as a fan, I would love more NFL games. An 18 game schedule in the NFL is a complex, multi-faceted issue with long ramifications for the league and the players. It can simply be summed up as, will this be too much of a good thing?

NFL Predictions

Here are my predictions for the upcoming NFL season:

National Football Conference

East- Dallas Cowboys-They are clearly the class of this division. It remains a tough division but not like in years past. Cowboys have the most talent, they now just need to have the desire too. This will also be Tony Romo’s year to move from a very good quarterback to an elite quarterback.

South- New Orleans Saints- The NFC South is Twilight Zone of NFL divisions with it propensity for worst to first divisional champions but not this year. Tampa Bay will not go worst to first but the defending champions will edge the Falcons for divisional supremacy.

North- Green Bay Packers- With or without Brett Favre leading the Minnesota Vikings, the Packers have the most talent in the division on both sides of the ball and a chip on their shoulder after the way the season ended last year. The Packers’ defense will be even more comfortable in their second year under defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. Aaron Rodgers will contend for his first NFL MVP award.

West- San Francisco 49ers- The 49ers will win the NFC West. The Niners have a strong running game, defense, and Alex Smith is developing into a game manager. The Cardinals, with Matt Leinart at quarterback, could be a mess on offense and have also taken a step back on defense as well. This is clearly the Niners’ division to lose.

Wildcard 1- Atlanta Falcons are ready to step back into the spotlight after missing the playoffs last year (though they did have a winning record). A healthy Michael Turner will be the difference.

Wildcard 2- Minnesota Vikings do have injuries and uncertainty to the receiving corps (Sidney Rice will miss at least half of the season after hip surgery and Percy Harvin continues to struggle mightly with migraines) which are beginning to worry me and should worry the Vikes as well. Favre will be asked to put the ball in Adrian Peterson’s hands more than last year which could mean more balls on the turf and more tension between Favre and Brad Childress over play calling.

On the outside looking in will be two NFC East team the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles.


American Football Conference

East- New England Patriots- To be the best, you have to beat the best. The Jets are not ready for primetime (unless you count primetime TV), I’ve blogged on that before. The Patriots have the motivation and talent to continue to win the division. Tom Brady will have an incredible year (huge chip on his shoulder). Miami will be improved and the Jets are solid (not spectacular) so the division remains one of the toughest in football.

South- Indianapolis Colts- The AFC South remains one of the toughest divisions. The Texans are solid, as are the Titans, and Jags can cause some matchup problems. The Colts, the Atlanta Braves of the NFL, are the NFL model for consistency and will win yet another division title. The question for the Colts, just as it was with the Braves, is what will they do in the playoffs.

North- Cincinnati Bengals- The Bengals won the division late year with a struggling offense. This year they have a rejuvenated offense (see Terrell Owens, Jordan Shipley, Jermaine Gresham) and the defense remains solid. The Ravens have injuries in the secondary that will keep them from winning the AFC North, they will make the playoffs. The Steelers will make a run at the end of the year but it is shaping up as uphill battle for Pittsburgh.

West- San Diego Chargers- Ah, the AFC West, remains the one of the worst in football (what is it with the western divisions in the NFL). The Chargers remain the class of a bad division. The Raiders (yes, the Oakland Raiders) will finish second in the division.

Wildcard 1- Baltimore Ravens have an upgraded offense with the additions of Anquan Boldin and Donte' Stallworth at receiver. The concern remains the health and depth of the secondary.

Wildcard 2- New York Jets are stout on defense. They still need Darrelle Revis in camp. The question, as I’ve posed before, is how much will Mark Sanchez improve and how will the receiving corps gel particularly given the 5 games worth of suspensions that Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes will need to serve.

On the outside looking in will be the Houston Texans (again) and the Miami Dolphins. Houston could get into the playoffs, I think they are very close and could get in as a wildcard but they will not win the AFC South

I will post my playoff and Super Bowl predictions the day before the NFL Season starts. Here’s a hint, I'm leaning towards a NFC North team versus a AFC South team in the Super Bowl in Dallas, Texas in February 2011.


Through My Head: Random Musings

In the current issue of Sports Illustrated there is a three article feature on the NFL running back. It is insightful and in many ways gut wrenching as it focuses on the physical toll the position puts on the human body as well as the expendable nature of the leagues runners. One of the articles, by Tim Layden, focuses on Gale Sayers. The article hits the normal points associated with Sayers his prodigious talent and his shortened career. The story begins with Sayers 2009 knee replacement surgery. The surgeon, Mark Klaassen, reported the following on Sayer’s knee:

Three long scars, one running down the front of the knee, another on the inside and a third on the outside, curling around to the back. These were from decades-old open surgeries ... Inside the knee Klaassen found carnage. Sayers' anterior cruciate ligament was gone; the posterior cruciate ligament was stretched and frayed. There was evidence that the medial collateral ligament had been sewn or stapled at some point in an effort to create stability (a practice common at one time but later found to be ineffective)… A half-inch wedge of his tibia had been sawed off in an osteotomy, a surgical procedure designed to redistribute weight away from an arthritic surface. Almost no cartilage remained, and as a result, the joint was filled with dust and fragments from bones rubbing together for many years. It was not the worst knee Klaassen had ever seen. But it was by far the worst on which the owner had been actively exercising.

What an amazing (albeit nauseating) testament to the physical punishment of the NFL but also of the spirit, will, and pain threshold of Gale Sayers.

Three Men and a Baby

So, Brett Favre is back for another year with the Minnesota Vikings. I’d like to say, “Wow what a shock…it’s unbelievable.” In reality, I think that a tweet by Trey Wingo (Baylor University Graduate) of ESPN says it all, “Favre coming back: in related news...sun sets in west tonight.”

So apparently the story goes that three Vikings (Jared Allen, Ryan Longwell, and Steve Hutchinson) flew down to Hattiesburg, Mississippi to meet Brett Favre. They showed up (apparently unannounced) at the Favre’s doorstep. But don’t you deep down inside think that Favre was watching ESPN News and knew that they were “reportedly” on their way down south? I have this notion in my head that Allen showed up carrying gold, Longwell frankincense, and Hutchinson myrrh. Maybe not, the notion of Jared Allen being a Magi is just plain funny. Okay, maybe not. Instead was there begging and stroking of the great ego over the steak dinner and long drives around Favre’s property. Did Favre suddenly have clarity while passing the A1 steak sauce to Ryan Longwell? Was it when Jared Allen quietly whispered, “You complete me” or when Steve Hutchinson emotionally stormed out to the patio and shouted, “Damn it, Brett, don’t quit us.”

Then the media circus started with aerial shots of the plane, the SUV, Favre walking holding a bag, a white bronco (oops, wrong circus). Rachel Nichols of ESPN tweeted, “Internet on the plane to Minnesota. Odd to be on a plane, watching video of someone getting off a plane, shot by someone in a helicopter.” Says it all, doesn’t it? Nobody, outside of runaway felons, gets the coverage that Favre does and he loves every single minute of it.

Yes, Favre gives the Vikings the best shot at a successful playoff season and maybe the Super Bowl. Yes, he doesn’t need training camp after 20 years in the league. Yes, he is an all time great. Yes, the NFL is better with him in the league. And, yes, he had a great season last year (4,202 yards, 33 TD and 7 INTS). But the fact is that the NFC North is better, the NFC is better, and Favre is a year older with another ankle surgery (number 3) behind him.

As I write this I’m listening to Favre’s press conference. As a Packers fan, I have spent years listening to his press conferences and without a doubt Favre sounds like he is still trying to convince himself of his “slumber party” decision. He says he came back because of the “great group of guys” in the locker room. He said the decision was really about the team, doing a “favor”, and he “owes it to the organization.” He never said that he is doing it because he wants to or he has unfinished business. His body language and voice scream, “I’m not sure.” The only emphatic statement that he made was that he didn't "want to fail.” That has to instill confidence in the Viking faithful.

Is he mentally committed to playing another year? I’m not convinced. Is his heart really in it? Does he really want to be back? I’m not sure because he is not sure. What happens when he gets drilled by linebacker, Clay Matthews of the Packers, will his “favor” to his teammates feel as good then? We know what happens when athletes aren’t mentally committed to the task at hand. They either play poorly or they get hurt. More times than not, it is the latter. So Vikings fans, the Vikings, and Coach Brad Childress be careful what you wish for…

Through My Head: Random Musing

Great tweet by Adam Schefter of ESPN, he tweeted, “Planned to retire after that bus trip but ESPN sent @Chris_Broussard, @Buster_ESPN and @erinandrews to talk me out of it. Worked, too.” Seriously, funny. I guess we all need someone to fly across the country, make us feel loved and secure, and then eat steak with us. It must be in our DNA.

Seriously?

Here is this week's edition of Seriously? My sarcastic look back at the week in sports.

Seriously, former number one pick, Stephen Strasburg, is calling out current number one pick, Bryce Harper, for not signing sooner with the Washington Nationals? Is it me or have Pot and Kettle not been formally introduced. Both Pot and Kettle are represented by uber agent, Scott Boras, and both can rest easy now that Kettle inked his deal 26 seconds before the deadline expired.

Apparently, Corey Pavin, U.S. Ryder Cup Captain, and Golf Channel reporter, Jim Gray got in a spat over Gray reporting that Pavin would select Tiger Woods as a Captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup team. This disagreement almost got physical. Seriously? Physical? What like a “throw down” or a tickle fight? Seriously? These two make featherweights look meaty. Jim Gray allegedly told Pavin that he "was going down." Seriously? Sadly, I’m thinking that Gray will not be asked to interview Pavin for the Golf Channel’s version of “The Decision.”

Francisco “K-Rod” Rodriguez, closer for the New York Mets, is now out for the year after tearing ligaments in his thumb while attacking the father of his girlfriend. Seriously? I can’t believe that a member of the Mets showed any sort of aggressiveness or passion. I’m not condoning violence, particularly against quasi family members, but I’m not used to any member of the Mets standing up for themselves normally they just quit.

The New Jersey Devils are working on a new deal with star left wing, Ilya Kovalchuk. This after their original $102 million 17 year deal was rejected by the NHL. Seriously? First, I’m not used to the NHL recognizing insanity when they see it. Big step forward for Gary Bettman and crew. But seriously, what’s next a $120 million 20 year deal? Kovalchuk will only be 47 years old. He could be the NHL’s Brett Favre.

Now what? Seems that everybody’s favorite lazy, fat guy football player is at it again. Albert Haynesworth, who protested (the Redskins moving from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense), asked for a trade, threatened a hold out, and failed conditioning test after conditioning test, now says that he likes the defense. Seriously? Don’t you think that Mike Shanahan is sitting in his office thinking the same thing? Seriously, Albert?

Tom Brady, quarterback of the New England Patriots, caused quite the stir earlier in the week as he practiced with tape on his fingers. Seriously, NFL media and Pats’ fans, settle down…remember deep, cleansing breaths. All is well, Coach Belichick says the injury is not “life threatening.” Talk about dodging a bullet of course Belichick has been known to be a bit cagey about injuries.

Through my Head: Random Musings

Torry Holt’s career just might be over. He was put on injured reserve by the New England Patriots with a knee injury. I’ve always been fond of Holt and amazed by his abilities and his work ethic. I remember him as a senior at North Carolina State when the Wolfpack played at Baylor in 1998. Baylor won the game (an upset but aren’t they all) 33-30 but Holt won the day with 255 yards receiving. He was literally a man among boys. I have not, to this day, seen a college receiver put on that kind of show. Impressive. Holt currently ranks 11th all-time in the NFL in receptions and 10th all time in yards. He also led the league in receiving yards twice and had 1,000 yards in eight straight seasons. The questions about the Hall of Fame can wait. If this is the end of Holt’s career. Thanks Torry for being an example of work ethic, skill, and class.

Just when you thought things couldn't get worse for the Buffalo Bills, they did. Starting running back, Fred Jackson is out at least a month with a broken left hand and backup running back, Marshawn Lynch, limping on a sprained ankle. Yes, they have rookie running back, C.J. Spiller, but I would suggest keeping him on the sidelines in bubble wrap if I were the Bills.

Dressed to Kill (err...Play): 10 Best NFL Uniforms

Uniforms for me have always been a focal point to the sports experience both as a fan and when I played. They are foundational for a team’s identity and make a statement (one way or another). I prefer classic over trendy. Consistency will be rewarded. Granted the NFL has in many ways mandated consistency (sometimes at draconian lengths) at least in team colors where in the NBA one year a teams’ colors could be red and yellow and the next year blue, silver, and red (see Rockets, Houston) or red, white, and blue and the next year black, red, and gold (see 76ers, Philadelphia).

So in my list of the 10 best uniforms in the NFL, you will not see the Jags, Vikings, Seahawks, or Patriots (Please, return to the Pat the Patriot helmets and dump the flying Elvis). I do not take into account throwbacks otherwise the Falcons would be on the list, as would the Titans (see Luv Ya Blue), and the Chargers would be at the top with the perfection that is the powder blues from the AFL days. Also, why we are at it, Eagles, please return to the kelly green and ditch the quasi forest shade of green that the Eagles now wear.

I have to give an honorable mention to the Cincinnati Bengals. One the helmet is iconic but they lack consistency. In fact they are the NFL’s version of the Oregon Ducks. The Bengals have white, orange, and black jerseys and when coupled with white and black pants creates and endless array of Halloween-like permutations.

10. Dallas Cowboys- Many view the Cowboys uniform as the class of the NFL. The uniform and helmet, in particular, is iconic and transcends sports. But, in frankness, it makes me scratch my head just a touch. The helmet is (true silver and navy blue) does not match the white uniform (bluish/greenish silver and royal blue). I like that they wear the white for all of their games with the exception of road games at Washington and sometimes Philadelphia. So the uni would be higher on my list, if it matched. I do like the rarely worn navy jersey with the true silver pants, but again, it is rarely pulled out of the equipment room.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers- Classic, clean, and consistent. The Steelers are the 3 Cs. The uniform and the one-sided logo helmet are recognizable outside of the realm of football and sports in general. The colors look great together and I'm partial to yellow pants as you will see later. It’s the Grandma rule. Can your Grandma recognize the Steelers uniform? Probably? I think that the six Super Bowl championships also make the uniform look better. It also works for the Iowa Hawkeyes who use nearly a carbon copy of the Steelers unis.

8. Cleveland Browns- This is the uniform that is so ugly it just might be cool. Orange and Brown? Seriously, who came up with that color scheme? Did the Browns lose the color lottery and were stuck with their colors? Regardless, the uniforms are classic. The brown and plain orange helmet grow on you. It is a throwback without being a throwback. The uniform helps you remember that the Browns were once good (see Jim Brown) and maybe again, well, maybe. And thankfully they have abandoned the brown pants...stick with white.

7. Arizona Cardinals- The Cards have one of the few “modern” uniforms that I like. I think that it is because of two reasons. One, the helmet design is virtually the same as the Cards have worn since way back in the St. Louis days. Two, the colors (red and white) are sadly unique in the NFL. There are teams that use red as an accent (e.g. Patriots, Giants, Texans) and the 49ers wear red and gold and Falcons wear red and black. The classic color combo with the current design (sans the mono-chrome red) looks fast, clean, and new classic.

6. Baltimore Ravens- This was my second biggest surprise to my list. I am not a fan of purple as it can make grown men look like Barney (see Vikings, Minnesota). But the Ravens with the purple and the black look imposing and intimidating. I think that part of this has to do with who the Ravens are a tough, hard-nosed football team. If the Bills wore these uniforms, I’m not sure anyone would view them as intimidating but Ray Lewis and company are a different story. The Raven logo (non-cartoony and intense looking) and the sleeve patch (patterned after the Maryland flag) are two key accents to the uniform.

5. New York Giants- The Giants were my biggest surprise on this list. I did not have them in the top 10 originally. But the more that I looked at them the more that I liked them. The NY on the helmet hearkens back to Giants teams of the past. The royal blue jerseys coupled with the grey paints are smart and unique in the NFL. The white unis take advantage of the red accents which I like. There is a classic tone and feel to the uniforms, which is why they moved up my list.

4. San Francisco 49ers- First, I hated the 49ers uniforms when they darkened the red and added black in the late 90’s through last year. It reeked of marketing and jersey sales. The return to the true red and gold (sans black) with white accents was a return to the classic uniforms wore during the height of 49er dominance (the uniforms worn by Rice, Lott, Montana, and Craig).

3. San Diego Chargers- The white helmets are great and are throwback to the Super Charger days of the AFL. I wish they would wear the throwback powder blues as their permanent uniforms but the current iteration with a navy home, powder blue alternative, and navy road pants are a great set. The Chargers have always been one of my favorites from the time when I was a kid. The lightning bolt on the helmet (virtually unchanged in design from the inception of the team) is a classically appealing element. It has been yellow, white, and blue with varying accents. The Chargers over time have changed their colors (powder blue, royal blue, navy blue) and uniforms at a high frequency. Consistency is there only issue, this set is great, so stick and stay Bolts.

2. Chicago Bears- LeRoy Butler (the great safety for the Packers) is right, “the Bears still suck.” I hate the bears but have a healthy respect for them and I love the unis. Again, the Bears hit the uniform trifecta of classic, clean, and consistent. The design has remained consistent throughout the years, the C logo is a classic, and the striped socks are a great throwback to the Bears teams of the past. The dark navy blue does add to the intimidation factor (hearkening back to the “Monsters of the Midway”. I love the George Stanley Halas initials (GSH) on the left sleeve as well.

1. Green Bay Packers- Okay, so I’m a homer. The Packers are my team and the uniforms are true classics. They haven’t been changed significantly since Lombardi’s first season. The G logo is one of the most recognizable logos in sports (yes, it is also used by UGA and Grambling both with permission from the Packers). The colors are unique, classic, and just a tad bit gaudy with the yellow pants. The lines are clean and classic. The helmet and pants provide perfect symmetry whether at home (green jersey) or on the road (white jersey). The only change I would make would be to add stripes back to the socks (circa 1967). Like with the Bears, I relish the fact that the uniforms today create a link to the past, to Lombardi, Taylor, Kramer, White, and yes, even Favre.

"Take My Talents to South Beach"

This week we found out that LeBron James is really Santa Claus. He has a list, and he's checking it twice, he's gonna' find out who's been naughty and nice. In honor of LeBron "taking his talents to South Beach." Check out this great mash up of other stupid things (actually some are acurrate and some are just funny) said during press conferences. Enjoy.

"Soon to be Champs?"

Have you noticed that we are being sold a bill of goods? Everyone is selling New York Jets, ESPN, Sports Illustrated, HBO, and anyone else that talks or writes about the NFL. The football world has “Gang Green” Fever. “Soon to be champs” is what Rex Ryan wrote on Adam Schefter’s bus during his NFL training camp stop for ESPN. I don’t see it personally. Yes, they have a good defense and they finished last season by not only making the playoffs but by becoming a Cinderella story but I do not see the slipper fitting anymore and the tiara will not fit on the Jets' collective big head.

Let’s take a closer look at last season. The Jets lost 6 of 7 games in middle of season. Also, not to play a “what if” game but in week 16 and 17 last year both Indianapolis and Cincinnati rested starters and played vanilla, lackluster football in what amounted to meaningless games for both the Colts and Bengals. If the outcome of just one of those games were different then the Jets would have been 8-8 and out of the playoffs. In the playoffs they knocked off a Cincinnati Bengals team that was out of gas and then ran through the arm tackles and overconfidence of the San Diego Chargers.

If they did not have the playoff run then the discussion about the Jets this year would be about whether second year quarterback Mark Sanchez could evolve to be a quality starter in the NFL, if the Jets could overcome the loss of their leading rusher, and the pesky little holdout by Darrelle Revis. With the Jets there are more questions than answers.


1. We know that they have a good defense and Rex Ryan can coach defense and scheme with the best of them. But I blogged before about the fact that if Darrelle Revis is not shutting down one side of the field it weakens the Jets defense more than “experts” want to admit (Ryan included). How can you blitz your safeties if you need to provide help over the top? Relying on a rookie and Antonio Cromartie (and his matador ways) presents problems for the complex blitzing schemes that are built upon the assumption that at least one side of the field will be shutdown with safety help. Chances are the Revis situation will get resolved (regardless of the public statements by Woody Johnson the Jets’ owner)

2. Mark Sanchez not an elite quarterback yet. He was pedestrian last year. Granted he was not asked to do much and he delivered less. He threw for 2,444 yards, a 12-20 touchdown to interception ratio, and a QB rating of 63. Not exactly stellar. Again, if the Jets had not slipped into the playoffs last year the questions following Sanchez would be about does he have the ability to be an efficient, effective passer in the NFL, and can he afford a sophmore slump that has plagued many QBs. Those questions remain regardless of the hype.

3. The Jets are faced with issues at receiver. There starting receivers will miss a total of 5 games this season due to league suspensions. Santonio Holmes will miss 4 games due to suspension did break a thousand yards (1248) with 5 TD with the Steelers (a year that they threw more than ran) and was traded in the off season when he wore out his welcome in Pittsburgh. Braylon Edwards, who was traded to the Jets after wearing out his welcome in Cleveland), will miss 1 game due to suspension. Edwards hardly lived up to the lofty expectations of a former number 1 pick putting up 680 yards and 4 TD while still having those annoying alligator arms. So needless to say there are some question marks at receiver for New York.

4. The Jets let go of Thomas Jones who rushed for 1402 yards and 14 TDs last season. He was durable, powerful, and effective. They do have Shonn Greene who rushed for 540 yards and 2 TDs last season. He looks like the real deal but depth is key in the modern NFL especially in this era of the two back systems.

5. No fear you say as they added LaDainian Tomlinson as a free agent in the off season. Now, I am one of the biggest LT fans there is. I lived in central Texas when he was tearing it up at University High School in Waco, Texas and then at TCU. I thought he should have won the Heisman Trophy 2001 and been the number one pick over Michael Vick in that year's NFL draft. But he’s done. As sad as it is to admit and I want to be wrong. But he put up 730 yards at 3.3 yards per carry last year. He can’t stay healthy and the numbers (age and yards per carry) are working against him. The Jets also added the over the hill Jason Taylor (7 sacks last year) and will use him at outside linebacker (too small to play DE in a 3-4 defense).

6. The last thing working against the Jets is all of those annoying distractions. There are the Hard Knocks cameras, there is the Revis contract situations, there are numerous players on the last year of their contracts (see Holmes and Edwards), there is LT accepting that he is not a star back anymore but a complementary player, and the biggest distractions of all, Rex Ryan. Coach Ryan, I respect your defensive prowess and your powers of motivation but shut up. In case you haven’t noticed your team has not won anything, has issues (see above), is fully coated in hype, and your “brashness” isn’t cute anymore, it’s just a distraction.

The New York Jets already overhyped and soon to be overrated.

Seriously?

Last week, I started a look back at the week in sports (with a bit of a sarcastic tone) in a weekly segment titled, “Seriously?” This is my version of the Meyers and Poehler segment called “Really!?!” on SNL’s Weekend Update. This past week was a weird one to say the least.

Seriously, Brett Favre. Was it your text messages? Was it a jumpy media itching to write your professional obituary, again? Was it you wanting to see your career highlights on a loop every half hour on ESPN News? Who knew that Brett Favre the tough guy, gunslinger would grow up to be such a diva?

Seriously, Rich Rodriguez how many investigations can you be at the center of? First, the University of Michigan now West Virginia University, what’s next a new series on CBS, maybe CSI Rodriguez?

Okay so Tiger Woods finished 18 strokes over par this weekend at the Bridgestone in Akron, OH. This is an event that El Tigre has dominated over the years. Seriously? Did you see the highlights? I know I can hit some of those shots; I’m positive that I can go bunker to bunker and then over shoot the green. How much you want to bet that a third of the “golf experts” will still pick Tiger to win the PGA Championship this weekend. I think he needs to be admitted into a residential golf rehab program.

Brian Cushing, Houston Texans linebacker and last year’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, now says that his failed drug test (PEDs) was because of “overtraining.” Seriously? What’s he going to tell us next? It’s not us, it’s him but don’t worry he still wants to be friends? There is apparently science behind his excuse but there is also science involved in “my dog ate my homework.” This is a guy who has had whispers of PEDs follow him from high school in New Jersey to USC to the draft combine and to the NFL. So we’ll buy the “overtraining excuse” when Isiah Thomas returns to the New York Knicks.

Oh, crap. Apparently, Isiah Thomas has been hired as a part-time consultant for the New York Knicks so obviously hell has frozen over. Seriously? What’s next FEMA is going to hire Mike Brown to consult? Is Al Davis going to hire Lane Kiffin back? What is Thomas going to consult on anyway? Sexual harassment? Signing marginal players to long term contracts? How to effective destroy an NBA Franchise? Seriously, now someone is going to tell me that Albert Haynesworth passed his conditioning test…

What? Is this the Twilight Zone? Albert Haynesworth passed his conditioning test? Seriously? Do you get the feeling that this was one of those “wink, wink, nod, nod” deals? Still it took ten days for a “professional athlete” to pass a relatively easy, routine conditioning test. Isn’t it funny that his ineptitude and complete lack of work ethic became the major story of the first week of training camps?

Seriously, the Rick Pitino story wins the Clorox Disinfecting Wipes Award for the week. Am I the only on looking forward to the Louisville Cardinals running a 15 second offense this season?

One of the funnier stories this week was that the Los Angeles Clippers and their former coach, Mike Dunleavy, were suing each other for fraud. Seriously? The Clippers and Dunleavy are both frauds one for impersonating a NBA franchise and the other for impersonating a NBA coach. The judge should throw the case out as both have inflicted enough damages on the fans.

Through My Head: Random Musings

Is it me or does Tim Tebow’s new haircut (by the way its veteran approved) looks like old school San Diego Padre’s Swinging Friar logo?

J.P Arencibia, rookie catcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, had an historic debut this weekend. He took the first major league pitch he saw and went yard. His next three at-bats were a double, a single, and another homer.

Driver 8-0

In the modern sports world, filled with free agency and trades, fans often have to root for the logo and the jersey and not the player. As a Packers fan, I have watched great players come (Reggie White, Keith Jackson, Andre Rison) and go (Antonio Freeman, Doug Evans, and Brett Favre). I have been fortunate to watch Donald Driver grow into one of the NFL’s toughest and most reliable receivers. Late last week, Driver signed a two year extension which virtually assures him that he will end his career wearing the green and gold of the Pack.

Driver had both knees cleaned up in the off season looks rejuvenated during training camp. He is cutting with quickness and speed and most importantly without pain. Driver is 35 years old and may never lead the Packers in yards and catches again (mostly because of the rise of Greg Jennings as the Pack’s number one receiver) but his value extends well beyond his stats. Driver was drafted by the Packers with the 213 overall pick (7th round) in 1999. Through his superior conditioning, tireless work ethic, and toughness he worked his way up the depth chart to being the Packers all-time leading receiver. His leadership on and off the field have helped to mold and shape younger members on the roster (note: he works extensively in the Green Bay and Houston communities and is a former winner of the Walter Payton “Man of the Year”). Yes, he is a leader and a mentor, but the Packers would not have extended his contract if he was not still effective (remember this is the Packers and Ted Thompson). Look for him this season on crucial 3rd downs; you can guarantee that Aaron Rodgers will.

I’ve always been a fan of Driver. I’ve never seen a receiver so willingly sacrifice his body over the middle to make catches (not the biggest receiver in the league at 6-0, 194 lbs). He is one of the smartest and toughest receivers in the league a guy who makes the difficult catch look easy. The media often holds Hines Ward up as the epitome of a tough receiver. Not to take anything away from Ward but I would take Driver and day of the week and obviously twice on Sunday.

Kelly, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly...

To quote Woody from Cheers, "Kelly, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly..." I hate to call out a fellow Baylor Bear but come on, Kelly Shoppach. The Tampa Bay Rays catcher struck out Thursday night and then went all "Bo Jackson" on his bat (its always the bat's fault, isn't it). The sad and unavoidable truth is that Shoppach is not Bo Jackson. Shoppach tried to break his bad over his thigh and was, well, less than successful. Excuse the quality, but check out the embarrasing video evidence.

You Can't Handle the Truth

Okay, I’m done. Since A-Rod hit his 600 career homerun, I have had to listen to baseball writers gripe and moan about PEDs once again and how they will never, ever, ever vote for anyone with any sort link to PEDS. For the better part of a decade I have had to listen to these same whining baseball writers and fans bemoan the reality of PEDs in their beloved sport. They talk about the violation to the very essence of our national pastime. The talk about how records, which apparently is the only reason to play the game, don’t mean anything. They talk about being cheated by cheaters who cheated the game (such a meaty, melodramatic argument), the fans, the writers, the players who played before them, the kids and their parents, and the very founders of our great nation. Spare me.

Yes, steroids and other PEDs have no place in baseball or any other sport for that matter. They are bad for the game, create an unlevel playing field, and have proven to be destructive to the human body. They should be banned, rigorously tested for, and eliminated from the sporting world. This includes HGH, blood packing, amphetamines, and any other PED.

But spare me the drama baseball writers. Where were you in the summer of 1998 when Mark “Paul Bunyan” McGwire and his “Giant Blue Ox” Sammy were chasing Roger Maris’ record? You were cheering, writing epic columns, getting new gigs based on your tall tales of home run hitters and strike out pitchers. You benefitted. You reveled. You celebrated too. Baseball won back a disappointed and spurned fan base still licking its wounds from a labor strike that cost us all a World Series. We all cheered the epic accomplishments of Clemens, McGwire, Sosa, Palmeiro, A-Rod, Bonds (okay, sort of) etc, etc, etc. We cleared out space for them in Cooperstown; we anointed them heroes and saviors. We never questioned their bulk (product of hard work and better nutritional science we told ourselves) or their power but neither did you holier-than-thou baseball writers. Where were you? Didn’t you grow up on Woodward and Bernstein? You went all People magazine on us with your “softball” questions to our “hardball” Gods. Where did you go Donald Fehr and Bud Selig?

So now, we’ll just throw the cheaters out. Wipe the records books of anyone who played during the 1990s and 2000s. Baseball writers will not vote in anyone who admitted to using PEDs, who is linked to PEDs, or even some who we suspect but have no proof. We think Bonds did (see bulk, hat size, shoe size, surly personality…um, strike the last one) but can we deny his greatness before he got ripped on flax seed oil? Do we have proof such as a failed test? Oh yeah, baseball didn’t have a test for PEDs they had the honor system (sans the Mitchell Report leaks). Again, what these players did was wrong. What baseball (as in MLB) didn’t do was wrong. What the writers failed to question and uncover was wrong. So we all are wrong.

This era, the Steroid Era for lack of a better phrase, cannot be wiped off of the books. We need to move past it and use it as a cautionary tale, a teachable moment. We should put up a big ass plaque in the Baseball Hall Fame that outlines the issues of the time and allows fans, parents, and kids to judge the accomplishments of the players during this era for themselves. Fans are not stupid and baseball writers need to realize that. We get that the pitchers and the batters were both on the “juice”. We get that it was pervasive. We get that the game is cleaner and more pure now (think hit and run, first to third, sound pitching, etc) because of the previous era’s transgressions. We also get that PEDs are part of the story of baseball for better or worse. So vote the great players in if they have admitted it and said they were sorry. If you want to protest in the first year of eligibility, fine, but vote the players in. Did they benefit, probably. But again, the pitchers were using too (see Roger Clemons, Andy Pettite, etc). But most of all, baseball writers get off of your collective high horse. I want to be able to go to Cooperstown with my kids and be able to discuss the history of baseball (the whole history) because even in the sad scandals and disappointing moments in the game’s history (and some of its players) there are lessons to be learned for future generations.

By the way, when are we going to pull players out of the Hall that took amphetamines? Remember “greenies”? Anyone think that they could have been performance enhancing? Anyone? Also, since the players were on the honor system, should we pull all dishonorable characters out of the Hall? Who makes the judgment on dishonorable? The Hall could lose Cobb, Ruth, Carlton (he was a jerk to reporters so banish him too), or Rose (whoops…I forgot we have a high horse for him too).

Which leads me to give baseball writers the Col. Nathan R. Jessep Award; this is an award that goes to a group on individuals that “cannot handle the truth.” Look what happens when you modify monologue, made famous by Jack Nicholson, from a Few Good Men to fit the baseball writers and their melodramatic conundrum:

I have a greater responsibility than you could possibly fathom. You weep for Baseball, and you curse the cheaters. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That PEDs in baseball, while tragic, probably saved baseball. And steroids existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saved baseball. You don't want the truth because deep down in places you don't talk about at parties, you want the ball over the wall, you need the ball over the wall…I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to men and women who wrote columns under the blanket of the very excitement that home runs provided, and then question the manner in which players and Major League Baseball did it. I would rather you just said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a bat, and stand in the batter’s box. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to.

Seriously?

Each week I will look back at the week that was with a bit of a sarcastic tone in a weekly segment called, “Seriously?” This is my version of the Seth Meyers and Amy Poehler segment called “Really!?!” on SNL’s Weekend Update.

So its official Darrelle Revis, the New York Jet’s star cornerback, is holding out for more cash money. I’m not a fan of holdouts and not being a Jets fan I couldn’t care less if he reports to camp on time, missed the preseason, or even real games. But Rex Ryan saying that the Jets will have the best defense and win the Super Bowl without Revis has me just a smidge perplexed. Seriously, Rex? He was your Defensive Player of the Year last year. Remember when you were whining over Charles Woodson of the Pack winning the award? Rex was so pissed that I thought he was going to go all Al Davis and roll out an overhead projector. Now, you don’t need him? Seriously? You are cool with Rookie Kyle Wilson and Dwight Lowery starting opposite Antonio Cromartie? Have you watched any tape on Cromartie? Put on the tape from the Jets/Chargers game from the Playoffs last season, you remember that one, don’t you? Call that exhibit one. He cannot tackle and calling him a “cover corner” is quite generous. Seriously, Rexy? If I go online to fathead.com and order a Rex Ryan Fathead for my basement, do you actually show up at the door? By the way, Rex, I understand this is posturing but come on, make it believable. There is no more important player to the Jets; they don’t call it Regis Island for nothing. With the blitzing nature of a 46 defense it is essential to be able to close off one half of the field. Regis can do that his replacements, not so much.

So the saga continues as Albert Haynesworth still cannot pass his conditioning test for the Washington Redskins. He failed it on Thursday and Friday last week and then rested on Saturday and Sunday. Okay wait, you are out of shape and your resting? Seriously? This is like someone on a diet taking a weekend to chow down at the local McDonald’s. Where is the logic on this? Okay, his knee is swollen but that’s because he’s not in shape. Seriously, Albert? You have been paid $35M over the past 16 months to be a professional athlete. You have the money now, when do you turn into a professional athlete? Obviously, not today as you refused to take the test. Seriously? Step one Albert, hire a trainer. Step two, show up at Redskins Park for team workouts it will help you in the long run. Step three, carbs are not your friend. Step four, look up the word professional and memorize the definition…use flash cards if you need to.

Alex Rodriguez is still stuck on 599 career homeruns. Seriously, is anyone surprised that A-Rod went all mental on us as he chases 600 career home runs. He did the same thing on 499 to 500. Has there ever been a player of his caliber that is more mentally fragile. Just when you think that he may have broken through to the other side (see last year’s playoffs) he goes mental. Seriously, get it over with and it will be better for all of us…do us all a favor, please. Some will say that this proves just how hard the game is but A-Rod has gone 9 for 38 in his little homer drought. I think it proves that baseball, more than most sports, is played not on the infield dirt or the outfield grass but on that very small patch of “land” between the ears. Seriously, like a band-aid A-Rod.

Is it me or did the New York Yankees go wee bit nutso at the MLB trade deadline? Lance Berkman, Austin Kearns, and Kerry Wood? Seriously, are they assembling the NL All-Star team from 2003? Experts praised the Yankees moves. Seriously? It reeked of a front office that was itching to do something because they felt like that had too. With Cliff Lee and Dan Haren gone and Adam Dunn going nowhere the Yankees responded like a college kids with a new credit card in their pocket. Seriously, Yankees you are a big sea fisherman don’t start fishing at the local pond.

The Philadelphia Phillies traded for Roy Oswalt…Seriously, I’m so very surprised. Seriously, I’m shocked.

Lane Kiffin. Seriously? That’s all I have to write. Seriously.

I hope that someone got fired over at the Major League Soccer home offices this week. After Manchester United wiped the pitch with the MLS All Stars someone has to ask, seriously? Who thought it was a good idea to schedule an exhibition to showcase just how bad the MLS is? Seriously, why does the MLS need an All Star game? Can anyone name 11 players in the MLS (and I’ll give you Landon Donovan can you give me the other 10)? Are those 11 players, All Stars? Next year, MLS, just hand out certificates to your “All Stars” and give them a few days off. Seriously embarrassing, Man U scored in the first 24 seconds and this is soccer not basketball.


Through My Head: Random Musings

If an NFL rookie does not have a contract can they really be a holdout?

Domonique Foxworth’s season ending injury (ACL) on the first day of Ravens camp is potentially a huge blow to the Ravens’ season. Already thin at corner and with the prospect of Ed Reed missing substantial time the Ravens defense, particularly the secondary, could be the weak link on a strong team.

Way to go Cincinnati Reds. Taking 2 of 3 from the Braves is exactly how you challenge for the central division title and the wildcard.

This has been a great MLB season so far and the stretch run is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in years. We are enjoying tight races in all but one division (AL West). It’s August and I can only confidently say that three teams (Yankees, Rays, and Rangers) are playoff bound.